I wonder if Marquette is actually this good or just extremely hot right now. Love Shaka for them long term but I cannot see them keeping this us
Fair question. Four players in particular: Morsell, Lewis, Kolek and Prosper, are making the best of their new opportunities at Marquette.
Morsell's MO is defense and one thing is for sure: Morsell won't keep shooting 54.5% from the field and 52.2% from 3. However, he's finally given an opportunity to expand his role offensively and he's shining with it. A little bit of shooting, passing, attacking the rim...
I also can't imagine Justin Lewis maintaining a 17.8 ppg, but he's a very good college player with a real chance to be an excellent college player and even a possible NBA pro. Garcia and Cain transferring has really helped him become the to-go forward on offense, plus he brings a level of versatility that can plug him into three spots, if needed.
We knew Kolek could shoot, but he's vastly surpassing expectations as the team's PG. A 6.2/2.8 A:TO is incredible, and then you add his perimeter shooting and his willingness to attack the rim, great pick up.
Prosper is a top-100 prospect from the '20 class who averaged just 9.7 mpg his freshman year, but w/ Marquette he's getting close to starter's minutes and is shining in a Whaley-like role: an athletic big who attacks the boards, hyper active on the defensive end and a respectable enough shot to help space the floor.
I've already talked about Kuath in another post: rivals Whaley and Obigau as the best defensive big in the Big East.
Personally, not many teams worked the waiver wire as well as Shaka Smart. Did he acquire the four best transfers? No, but with a rebuilding, young roster the combination of vets Morsell/Kuath with long term pieces Kolek/Prosper fit perfectly with the players Smart retained and the '21 class he brought in.
Plus, their shooting will get even better w/ senior Greg Elliott (career 42 3p%) returning.